Manila, Oct. 19 -- Authorities seized PHP240 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested 267 suspects from Aug. 26 to Oct. 16, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

In a statement Sunday, the PNP said it carried out 335 anti-smuggling operations nationwide, 311 of which specifically targeted smuggled cigarettes.

The Police Regional Office (PRO)-Western Visayad led with cigarette seizures worth PHP58.9 million, followed closely by PRO-Zamboanga Peninsula with PHP56.2 million and PRO-Soccsksargen with PHP47.7 million.

Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. lauded the dedication of the operating units, describing the accomplishment as "a clear message that the PNP stands firm in defending the nation's economic int...